When is Albanian Independence Day?

Independence Day in Albania, known as Dita e Pavarësisë, is a public holiday celebrated on November 28th. This National Day commemorates when Albania proclaimed independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. It begins a two-day holiday period, ending on November 29th, and is often marked with a festive counter or countdown to build excitement across the country.

Is Albania Independence Day a public holiday?

Yes — Albanian Independence Day (Dita e Pavarësisë) is officially a public holiday in Albania, celebrated every year on November 28th. It’s part of a two-day celebration that continues on November 29th.

History of Albanian Independence Day

During the fifteenth century, the Ottoman Empire spread across South-Eastern Europe, overtaking kingdoms including what is now modern-day Albania. By 1431, most of the region was under Ottoman control. However, in 1443, a revolt led by Skanderbeg changed the course of history. His military campaigns to defend Albania earned him the title of national hero among Albanians, preventing further Ottoman expansion into western regions of Europe. In 1479, Albania once again fell to Ottoman rule, remaining so until just before the first world war. By the nineteenth century, the spirit of nationhood swept Eastern Europe, and despite its privileged position, Albania joined in uprisings against Ottoman rule. The Balkan Wars weakened the empire, and in 1912, Ismail Qemali led the Albanian national movement to proclaim independence on November 28th 1912. This is still marked by a festive parade in Tirana, the capital. Today, people often track the celebration days using a festive counter or countdown, adding a modern touch to an event steeped in tradition. Even King Zog, Albania’s national leader from 1928 to 1939, remains part of the country’s proud heritage.

Capital of Albania

Tirana, the capital and largest city of Albania, lies at the center of the country, surrounded by mountains and hills with views toward the Adriatic Sea. Known as one of Europe’s wettest and sunniest cities with 2,544 hours of sun, it was founded in 1614 by Ottoman Albanian general Sylejman Pasha Bargjini. Today, it is the key economic, financial, political, and trade centre of the nation, often hosting major festive events counted down with a public festive counter.